Srividhya Deshpande: Architect of Inclusive Leadership and Strategic Growth
“When people feel seen, they show up differently.” This belief has quietly driven Srividhya Deshpande throughout her career, turning policies into purpose and workplaces into safe spaces.
As the Vice President – Talent Management and India Operations Head at Egen, Srividhya didn’t just step into a leadership role—she stepped into the hearts of her people. In a world where HR is often reduced to systems and structures, she brought something rare: empathy that moves strategy forward.
Her journey began with deep listening—of stories, silences, and the subtle signals that people often leave unsaid. From launching awareness programs on unconscious bias to championing “Self Reflection & Self Awareness” sessions for women, she made inclusion feel personal and practical. Under her leadership, Egen didn’t just talk about diversity; they started living it—targeting real growth in female representation and ensuring every voice had a seat at the table.
Srividhya’s story is not just about building organization—it’s about building trust. In every meeting, every mentorship moment, she reminds her team: culture isn’t built overnight, but in everyday choices. And through hers, she’s creating a workplace where people don’t just work—they belong.
From Engineering Aspirations to Human Capital Visionary
Srividhya’s journey from an engineering graduate to a distinguished HR leader is a testament to her adaptability and foresight. Graduating with a B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in 2005, Srividhya initially planned to pursue a career in software engineering. However, during her early job interviews, she became intrigued by the pivotal role HR played in shaping careers and organizational cultures. This realization led her to pivot towards Human Resources, a field where she could blend her analytical skills with her passion for people development.
Over the past 20 years, Srividhya has built a robust career, holding significant HR leadership positions at renowned organizations such as eQuest Consulting, iGATE Global Solutions, Intelligroup (NTT Data), Monsanto (now Bayer), JoulestoWatts Business Solutions, and SpringML (Now Egen). Her expertise spans staffing, IT procurement, category strategy, resource management, business growth, sourcing, and vendor management. Each role has been a stepping stone, refining her ability to align human capital strategies with business objectives.
At the onset of SpringML in India, Srividhya’s leadership was instrumental in driving initiatives that enhanced employee lifecycle management, including the implementation of HRMS tools, payroll automation, and background verification systems. Her inclusive approach earned her the title of Diversity Champion at Monsanto and received several recognitions in her career for her contributions to organizational development. These experiences laid the foundation for her current role at Egen, where she continues to influence HR practices on a global scale.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion at Egen
As the Vice President of Global Talent Management and India Operations Head at Egen, Srividhya has been a driving force behind the company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, she has implemented initiatives that promote an inclusive workplace culture. Under her leadership, Egen has seen a notable increase in female representation, with women now comprising 28% of the workforce and 5% of leadership roles.
One of Srividhya’s key initiatives is the establishment of the India People Council, a platform that empowers employees to voice their ideas and concerns. This council has been instrumental in bridging communication gaps, especially for remote employees, and has led to the development of programs that support work-life balance and career advancement. For instance, Aswathy Murugan, an Engineering Manager at Egen, credits her rapid career progression to the supportive environment fostered by the People Council and Srividhya’s leadership.
Additionally, Srividhya has been an advocate for Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), recognizing their role in fostering a sense of belonging and community within the organization. Through her efforts, Egen has seen increased employee engagement and retention, demonstrating the tangible benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Navigating Challenges with Empathy and Innovation
Srividhya’s leadership is characterized by empathy and a proactive approach to challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she prioritized employee well-being by implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), organizing wellness webinars, and promoting work-life balance through mandatory breaks and engagement activities. These initiatives not only supported employees during a challenging time but also reinforced the company’s commitment to its workforce.
Her ability to navigate crises with compassion and strategic foresight underscores her effectiveness as a leader who values both people and performance. Srividhya’s approach to HR is not just about managing resources but about creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported, leading to enhanced productivity and organizational success.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Srividhya is dedicated to mentoring aspiring professionals. She encourages young women to embrace curiosity, persistence, and a growth mindset, emphasizing that technical skills must be complemented by adaptability and a passion for learning. Her advocacy for embracing technology and exploring fields like artificial intelligence reflects her forward-thinking approach to career development.
Srividhya’s personal philosophy revolves around the power of positive thinking and self-affirmation. She believes that setbacks are opportunities for growth and that resilience is key to overcoming challenges. She has mentioned in multiple forums that her family is her strength. Her husband Amit Deshpande’s unwavering support, parents’ positivity and both her teen kids’ new age perspective has made her a stronger individual. Her journey from an engineering graduate to a trailblazing HR leader serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with determination and the right mindset, one can break barriers and achieve remarkable success.
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